Specialist Engineer, Spaceship Propulsion Design

Virgin Galactic is seeking a Specialist Engineer with experience in propulsion design, analysis and production manufacturing.  The primary task for the person in this role will be to design, model and analyze engineering solutions for components and subsystems in the hybrid propulsion system of Spaceship.  The design specialists will have a broad understanding of best engineering practice to assist the propulsion team during development, ground test and flight test.

• Works with Spaceship Propulsion team to develop designs for Spaceship Propulsion systems 
• Develops 3D CAD models and 2D engineering definition for detail parts, assemblies, and installations inside Spaceship. 
• Establishes manufacturing tolerances for production of components 
• Develops and documents system requirements and interface constraints for components 
• Reviews, updates, and compiles engineering analytical definitions
• Perform preliminary stress analysis
• Play an integral role in the workflow release process for all designs  
• Supports review of manufacturing plans and procedures to ensure compliance with the requirements  
• Coordinates with other disciplines to ensure component performance in flight environments 
• Supports verification activities to ensure that the propulsion system meets requirements 
• Participates in the review, approval, and release process of engineering definition 
• Supports components throughout full lifecycle from prototype to final acceptance as well as modifications and repairs after installation 
• Uses engineering judgment to evaluate manufacturing issues and support nonconformance reports (NCR) 

Required Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution, with a minimum of 12 years relevant industry experience 
• Proficient with CATIA V5, preferred experience with 3D Experience 
• Knowledge of manufacturing methods for various materials (tube bending, composite layup, metal machining, 3D printing, bonded assembly, mechanical assembly) 
• Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software and configuration management processes 
• Excellent organizational, communication and problem solving skills 
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel and Powerpoint 
• Experience using GD&T and ASME Y14.5M-1994 drafting standards 
• Experience designing for aerospace environments
• Experience in the development of human spaceflight hardware desired 
• Experience with free-body diagrams and classical stress analysis techniques  

The annual U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $132,100.00–$201,550.00. The base pay actually offered will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, location, and experience and take into account internal equity. Other forms of pay (e.g., bonus or long term incentive) may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. For more information regarding Virgin Galactic benefits, please visit https://vgcareers.virgingalactic.com/global/en/benefits

Who We Are

Virgin Galactic is transforming humanity’s relationship with space. By making it more open and accessible, we are connecting the world to the love, wonder and awe inspired by space travel, helping to create new opportunities for the benefit of life on Earth. Whether it’s supporting cutting-edge research missions for scientists and students, or offering life-changing experiences for the adventurers among us, Virgin Galactic is THE spaceline for Earth. Such an audacious vision requires a team as driven as they are curious - one capable of redefining the boundaries of what’s possible. 

Export Requirements 
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Person (either a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident or a protected individual as defined 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or be able to obtain the required authorization from either the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The applicant must also not be included in the list of Specifically Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. See list here.

EEO Statement
Virgin Galactic is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Virgin Galactic is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status. 

DRUG FREE WORKPLACE
Virgin Galactic is committed to a Drug Free Workplace.  All applicants post offer and active teammates are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies. This can include pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and accident related drug and alcohol testing.